Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Gregory J. Liebscher, MD, FACS, Colorado Springs, COhttp://www.springsplasticsurgery.com
Mayo Clinic-trained and board-certified Colorado Springs plastic surgeonThu, 20 Aug 2015 22:35:45 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.7Remembering Those Who Servedhttp://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/remembering-served/
Mon, 26 May 2014 14:43:39 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=923We wish all of our friends and family an enjoyable and safe Memorial Day holiday as we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

]]>Memorial Day U.S. FlagWrite us a Google reviewhttp://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/write-us-a-google-review/
Sat, 05 Apr 2014 03:00:28 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=785We’d like your feedback! If you have a Google account, please visit our Google+ page and write a review of our plastic surgery services. Write a Google review now Thanks for taking the few minutes it takes to visit our page and write the review. Give us a call at 719-634-2503 if you ever have […]

]]>GoogleReviewPlease write us a review on Googlehttp://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/please-write-us-review-google/
Sat, 11 Jan 2014 23:41:22 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=750We hope your 2014 is off to a great start. And if you had a positive experience with Dr. Greg Liebscher, we’d like you to share your experience by writing a review on our Google+ page. To write a review on Google, you will need a Gmail account. When you’re ready, you can write your […]

]]>Google Plus LogoShould You Perform Breast Self Exams after Breast Augmentation Surgery?http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/perform-breast-self-exams-breast-augmentation-surgery/
Fri, 25 Oct 2013 20:52:19 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=735Conducting monthly breast examinations is important to maintain your health even after breast augmentation. Women who perform regular self exams often find lumps in the breast earlier than women who rely on their gynecologist to detect problems during their yearly check-up. This is critical since breast cancer is the second most common cancer found in […]

]]>Conducting monthly breast examinations is important to maintain your health even after breast augmentation. Women who perform regular self exams often find lumps in the breast earlier than women who rely on their gynecologist to detect problems during their yearly check-up. This is critical since breast cancer is the second most common cancer found in women.

Early detection is believed to be the most important predictor of a positive response to treatment for breast cancer and breast cancer survival rates. Research has shown that over 96 percent of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer before it had spread to the the lymph nodes survived at last five years after the treatment had been completed.

Women who have had breast augmentation surgery often question if this health practice is safe for them to perform. Many worry they may rupture the implant, or that the implant will impair their ability to detect a lump. However, according to the American Cancer Association, even women with breast implants should conduct monthly breast self exams.

It can be helpful for the surgeon who placed the implants to identify the edges of the implants for the woman so she can be certain she is examining breast tissue. In some cases, women report that after having implant surgery it is easier to conduct breast self exams since the implants push the breast tissue outward.

The technique for performing breast self exams after implant surgery is slightly different than when there are no implants. In order to perform a self exam with implants, press firmly inward at the implants edges until you feel the ribs. Take care not to squeeze or push on the implant excessively to avoid rupturing or deflating the implant. If you fear you may have accidently damaged the implant, have your surgeon check the implant as soon as possible.

The best time to perform breast self exams is when the breasts are not sore or swollen. Many professionals recommend performing monthly exams about a week after the woman’s period. When conducting a breast self exam check for any changes in breast texture, lumps, or sores. Should you find any of these symptoms, see your physician immediately to have a complete breast examination. This may include a biopsy.

If you are being examined or treated by a new physician make sure they are aware of the fact you have implants so they will use appropriate care when performing examinations, mammograms or biopsies to prevent damaging the implants.

Depending on the size of the implants used in breast augmentation surgery, detecting changes in breast tissue or new lumps can be difficult using only self breast exams. This does not mean that women with implants should not continue to perform self exams regularly, however, it is also important for them to have regular exams conducted by a professional.

]]>Breast Self ExamCan I have more than one cosmetic surgery procedure done at the same time?http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/can-one-cosmetic-surgery-procedure-done-time/
Fri, 18 Oct 2013 20:34:34 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=732Cosmetic surgery helps to enhance appearance and boost self-esteem. This surgical procedure offers many physical and emotional benefits. Some people who want plastic surgery are wondering if they can have more than one cosmetic surgery procedure performed at the same time. Well, there is no one answer to the question of how many cosmetic surgery […]

]]>Cosmetic surgery helps to enhance appearance and boost self-esteem. This surgical procedure offers many physical and emotional benefits. Some people who want plastic surgery are wondering if they can have more than one cosmetic surgery procedure performed at the same time.

Well, there is no one answer to the question of how many cosmetic surgery procedures you can have at the same time. Some surgeries can be performed at once with minimal risks while combining other surgical procedures can increase the chances of problems.

There are a several advantages to having multiple surgical procedures performed at the same time. You go through recovery from several procedures simultaneously instead of one at a time if the procedures are performed at different times.

One of the benefits of having several cosmetic surgery procedures at once is that you will combine your recovery time. Any cosmetic procedure you have will require some time for recovery, so if you’re going to have more than one surgery, you can cut down your recovery time by having all of the procedures done on the same day.

While cutting down on recovery time may sound appealing, certain types of cosmetic surgeries put a strain on the body, and you must rest after the procedure. You need to be in a healthy condition before having any type of cosmetic surgery procedure, but if you think that undergoing more than one procedure at the same time will put a big strain on your body, you may want to schedule them on different times instead.

Having multiple procedures at one time will result to lower overall costs, since you are using the operating room once and having anesthesia once. Many surgeons have no problem with this, but some surgeons prefer to put their patients through one surgical procedure at a time and monitor progress after each procedure, and perhaps fine tune skills and anesthesia for future surgeries.

Many people who have plastic surgery are anxious about showing the results of their procedure to relatives and friends. Having several procedures at the same time means you will only have to reveal the results once. If you relish showing off your new look, having several revelations in a row can be an exciting experience.

An important factor to consider should be how often the surgeon has performed the cosmetic procedures you are considering. Find out how much experience your surgeon has with the specific surgeries you are interested in. If your surgeon has great expertise in liposuction but is not well-versed in performing facelifts, it may be a good idea to spread out your procedures and look for an alternative surgeon to perform the facelifts.

Certain cosmetic surgeries go hand in hand, so you may want to combine multiple surgeries that can be done at the same time. For example, you may need to have a tummy tuck following liposuction in order to get rid of loose skin. It’s also a smart move to combine breast augmentation procedure with a breast lift cosmetic surgery.

Having more than one cosmetic surgery at the same time, or having cosmetic surgery procedures at different times both have advantages and disadvantages. A skilled cosmetic surgeon in partnership with an experienced anesthesiologist can make the decision whether they’re able to perform multiple procedures at the same time, or whether they want to perform them separately.

]]>Having multiple cosmetic surgery proceduresWhat’s a Nip & Tuck?http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/whats-nip-tuck/
Tue, 17 Sep 2013 22:06:57 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=718A nip and tuck, more commonly referred to as a facelift, is actually a proven, effective cosmetic surgery procedure known formally as a rhytidectomy. Although cosmetic surgeons offer a number of procedures to make you look and feel your best, facelifts are still the procedure of choice for many people who wish to enjoy the […]

]]>A nip and tuck, more commonly referred to as a facelift, is actually a proven, effective cosmetic surgery procedure known formally as a rhytidectomy. Although cosmetic surgeons offer a number of procedures to make you look and feel your best, facelifts are still the procedure of choice for many people who wish to enjoy the benefits of a firmer, more youthful, wrinkle-free face and neck.

During a facelift, your cosmetic surgeon will remove the sagging and drooping skin and adipose tissue that can make you look older than you feel. This allows the surgeon to tighten your muscles and skin to reveal the natural, youthful contours of your underlying bone structure. Necessary incisions are strategically located at natural creases in your skin or along your hairline, where they will not be noticeable after you have healed from your surgery.

Although the idea of a procedure that could turn back the clock and make a person look years younger seemed impossible only a few generations ago, today facelifts have become popular choices for people of both sexes. In fact, in America alone, 120,000 people had a facelift in 2012. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the main reason these patients cited for choosing a facelift was a desire to achieve a more attractive and youthful appearance.

Another study published by the AMA showed that people who have facelifts achieve these goals, concluding that facelifts are an effective way to take years off a person’s appearance. This is not only true for younger patients; the JAMA reports that older patients were even more satisfied with the results of their surgery than their younger peers.

If you are considering a facelift, here are some things you should know.

Many patients go home after surgery. However, some people stay the night at the hospital, so pack an overnight bag just in case.

Expect to go home with bandages on your face. These bandages typically come off a day or two after surgery, and your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove your stitches in a week or so.

You may be given medication for pain relief following surgery. Applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated may also help.

Swelling and even bruising are normal after a facelift. Also, don’t be surprised if your face feels stiff for a few days.

As with any cosmetic surgery, your results are heavily dependent upon the skill and experience of your cosmetic surgeon.

]]>What’s a Nip and Tuck?Is it harder to exercise with breast implants?http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/harder-exercise-breast-implants/
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 16:00:06 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=716For those who are fitness-conscious, you will want to make sure you have an amazing body to go along with the new breast implants. Before heading back to the gym, it is important that you remember that cosmetic surgery is an invasive and traumatic surgery and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Moderate exercise will help make […]

]]>For those who are fitness-conscious, you will want to make sure you have an amazing body to go along with the new breast implants. Before heading back to the gym, it is important that you remember that cosmetic surgery is an invasive and traumatic surgery and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Moderate exercise will help make sure your body properly heals with a minimal risk for infection, stretch marks and scar tissue.

Placement and size of the implants will determine the intensity and type of exercise that can be performed immediately following the surgery. Implants can weigh close to a pound or more. When placed beneath the muscle, the muscle will help to support the additional weight. If the implant were to be placed in front of the muscle, you will want to take the necessary precautions against any harmful stretching of the skin and their resulting stretch marks. Extra weight can cause soreness in the surrounding muscles in the neck and back. Pay attention to the warning signs of discomfort and pain and make the necessary adjustments to your workout routine.

Functions within the Muscle and Shoulder Joint

Based upon the type of exercises performed before the surgery and your fitness level, the implants may not interfere with your workout routine.

Making the change from an A cup to a C cup may be a lot more difficult than going from a B cup to a C cup due to the changes in structure. The increased mass can cause difficulties in movement.

Minimize engaging in any weight-bearing shoulder movements until the pain and inflammation subside.

Avoid participating in any kettleball exercises requiring dynamic movements from the early stages.

Exercising to Aid in Recovery

Moderate exercising can help to speed the recovery process following surgery.

Cycling or walking can help to reduce inflammation.

Wear added support to help prevent any excessive movements in the breasts.

Moving the joint slowly through the full range of motion will help to restore your flexibility and promote healing.

Avoid any extreme stretching until such time as the swelling and pain have disappeared.

It is entirely normal to experience a significant amount of inflammation and pain after the breast enhancement surgery, but you should experience a lessening of the pain over time. Exercising too aggressively or too soon following the surgery can slow down the recovery process. If inflammation and pain worsen, you will want to contact the surgeon right away. Scar tissue can form around the implant to the point where it will constrict the capsule and cause hardening and pressure. Implants can end up shifting from their intended location and provide you with a distorted and imbalanced appearance.

Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon about the proper care of breast implants and daily activity restrictions.

]]>Exercising with Breast ImplantsWhat to look for when choosing a plastic surgeonhttp://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/look-choosing-plastic-surgeon/
Fri, 06 Sep 2013 16:46:57 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=712Plastic surgery is a big step in your life. Even if the goals of a procedure are largely cosmetic, that does not reduce the significance of a surgery. All surgical procedures carry risk and most are expensive. Therefore, choosing the right plastic surgeon is critical for your confidence going into a procedure, for your results […]

]]>Plastic surgery is a big step in your life. Even if the goals of a procedure are largely cosmetic, that does not reduce the significance of a surgery. All surgical procedures carry risk and most are expensive. Therefore, choosing the right plastic surgeon is critical for your confidence going into a procedure, for your results coming out of the procedure and for your pocketbook.

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

In addition to being board-certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, certain characteristics in a plastic surgeon are ideal. Consider the following factors when choosing a physician for your next procedure.

1. Educational Background

Education is not everything but it does form an important foundation for a medical professional. You do not need for your surgeon to come from an Ivy League School. Quality professionals in this business are also trained in smaller or less well-known schools around the country. However, you do want to make sure that your surgeon went to a school that is considered acceptable among peers. Furthermore, you should be suspicious of doctors with diplomas from hard-to-find schools that are located outside North America.

2. Years of Experience

You want your surgeon to be experienced but be careful that his or her account of experience does not merely refer to the amount of time passed in the medical profession. The critical statistic in this decision is how many years’ experience the surgeon has in this particular type of surgery. You also want to know how many times, more or less, a surgeon has performed that particular procedure.

3. Personal Rapport

Have at least one meeting with your plastic surgeon before agreeing to any procedure. It is better to have more meetings. You need a chance to know something about the surgeon and gain some trust in him or her.

4. Public Reputation

Ask around and check reviews on the Internet. Even good doctors have the occasional bad review. However, you should be wary when you see a lot of complaints.

5. Proximity

As much as you may like a physician, it is all for nothing if you do not live close enough to where he or she practices.

6. Availability

Good surgeons are hard to find because they only have so much time and the patients line up for them. Make sure that your favorite choice has a spot open for you.

7. Affordability

Ultimately, cost is a deciding factor. Insurance will probably not cover your surgery, especially if it is at all cosmetic. Your ideal surgeon will have a payment plan that you can use to meet the costs.

There may be other factors involved in the decision that suit your needs. Going in for plastic surgery is a significant event in life, so do not be afraid to take your time.

]]>Choosing a Plastic SurgeonHow Long Does a Facelift Take to Heal?http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/long-facelift-take-heal/
Fri, 30 Aug 2013 20:59:29 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=701Recovery time is always an issue when people consider cosmetic surgery. Unlike more urgent procedures, these surgeries are often not excused or granted special consideration by employers. Instead, cosmetic surgery patients have to fit their procedures into long weekends or use up personal days. With a facelift, it might appear that there is less concern […]

]]>Recovery time is always an issue when people consider cosmetic surgery. Unlike more urgent procedures, these surgeries are often not excused or granted special consideration by employers. Instead, cosmetic surgery patients have to fit their procedures into long weekends or use up personal days.

With a facelift, it might appear that there is less concern about recovery time. This work does not directly affect areas concerning the arms and legs which would get stressed in even a sedentary job. However, you only have to ask someone who has had a facelift to talk about the discomfort that they can feel. Remember that your face moves as you exert yourself and this will obviously cause pain.

Most people are concerned about recovery time because they want to return to work. Others are wondering about when they can put make up on and so forth. Since everyone has a different lifestyle, there are really two levels of concern. When will the pain subside so that you can at least do light duty work and when will recovery progress so far that the surgery is just a memory?

First Stage – Getting Past the Pain

When you leave surgery after a facelift you will have dressings placed along the lines of the incision to deal with wound drainage. These incisions will be held shut with sutures. You will have to keep your head elevated to minimize swelling. Bruises will be prominent and your face will appear swollen for two or three days. Discomfort will be noticeable but not severe. Medication should make any pain manageable.

A day or two later, the dressings can come off. However, the sutures will remain in the incisions for five to 10 days. After this, you can start to use make-up, bathe normally and do a variety of tasks.

If you work at home at the computer or have a very sedentary job and are not concerned about people seeing the obvious aftermath of plastic surgery, you could reasonably do some work after a couple days. If you prefer to wait for the signs to subside a bit more, you will probably want a week for everything to heal enough.

Second Stage – Full Recovery

To completely get over the facelift, it is going to take two or three weeks. Muscle stiffness will probably come and go for a while longer. However, the majority of people are back to normal in less than a month.

As far as scars go, it may take a full year for them to fade completely. Since surgeons usually place them in discreet locations, this should be less of a concern. Any scars that show can be covered with makeup once the surgeon gives permission.

Please keep in mind that you should always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon about any cosmetic facial procedure.

]]>Facelift Healing TimeWrite a Review for Us!http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/write-a-review-for-us/
Mon, 19 Aug 2013 18:38:38 +0000http://www.springsplasticsurgery.com/?p=697If you recently had a good experience with your plastic surgery procedure with Colorado Springs plastic surgeon, Dr. Greg Liebscher, we’d like you to share it by writing a review for us on Google! It doesn’t have to be long or detailed. Just a few sentences or so to let us know how we were […]

]]>If you recently had a good experience with your plastic surgery procedure with Colorado Springs plastic surgeon, Dr. Greg Liebscher, we’d like you to share it by writing a review for us on Google!

It doesn’t have to be long or detailed. Just a few sentences or so to let us know how we were able to help you out.

Click here to visit our Google+ page. You’ll see a section where you can write your review. You’ll need a Gmail account in order to post a review. Thanks ahead of time for taking the time to write us a review.